descent rates

[horwood]

When going on hols in a320 a couple of years back from Heathrow to Malta (Luqa) the captain announced a quick descent and was annoyed at ATC for this. Wow, my ears nearly exploded and all the kids on the plane were crying. The hostesses couldnt give out sweets quick enough.
Does anyone know what kind of descent rates cause this and what is really the max for passenger comfort????

[salmendra]

It happened to me once or twice while flying. I think (but I may be wrong) its not as much the rate of the descent but rather it happens because the aircraft´s pressurization was done to fast. I am not sure if the rate of the pressure change is computer or pilot controlled, but if it is to quick you get these snesations you are talking about.

Best

Sergio Almendra
Campinas - Brazil
(and BUMP !)